Signing news: McGree returns home after Adelaide agree fee with Club Brugge

South Australia-born Riley McGree is returning home to become the first signing of Gertjan Verbeek’s reign at Adelaide United.

McGree, 20, has penned a three-year deal with the Reds after an undisclosed fee was agreed with Belgian outfit Club Brugge.

The Gawler-born midfielder had signed for the fifteen-time Belgian champions in July 2017 after a breakout campaign for Adelaide.  

“It’s great to be back with Adelaide United and to have another opportunity at this great club ahead of a big season," McGree told the club website.

“As a team, Adelaide had a very good season last year and were unlucky to miss out on a place in the Grand Final, so I have big ambitions for the club and myself for sure. 

“Gertjan likes to play a style of football that suits me well so I’m excited to be part of this team and cannot wait for it all to begin.” 

An experienced youth international for Australia, McGree has spent the last two seasons on loan at Newcastle Jets and Melbourne City.

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Adelaide Director of Football Bruce Djite said: “At just 20 years of age, Riley is only beginning to scratch the surface in terms of what he can achieve in his career."

“Being picked-up by a European club like Brugge at 18 says a lot about him as a footballer, but for us to be willing and able to pay a transfer fee for him and successfully bring him back to South Australia is a strong statement from the club.

“Riley possesses all the attributes that we are looking for when we consider who we bring in to the club, not just his footballing ability but his character and willingness to improve and work tirelessly.”

McGree will don the No. 8 kit for the Reds.

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